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New members of European parliament urged to take lead on saving our oceans

Published on May 21, 2019

The environmental organisations BirdLife, ClientEarth, The Fisheries Secretariat, Oceana, Seas At Risk, and WWF are calling on the newly elected members of the European parliament to take โ€œcommitted and ambitious leadership to save our oceanโ€.

In a joint NGO letter to MEP lead candidates to the European Parliament elections on 23-26 May 2019, NGOs highlighted the need for the European Union to provide committed and ambitious leadership to save our ocean.

Referring to commitments made under the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Common Fisheries Policy, Marine Strategy Framework Directive, EU biodiversity strategy and Birds & Habitats Directive they call on the EU parliament to implement the laws and obligations to which the EU committed.

NGOs urge the fulfilment of eight crucial actions over the next five years in order to ensure the future of European seas and our collective future is protected.

The European Green party replied stating “The European Green Party is glad to inform you that the Green Lead Candidates, Ska Keller and Bas Eikchout, commit on the crucial actions that you mention in your letter.”

The European People’s Party replied saying “Combatting climate change and defending our environment are fundamental for our future. This is why fighting climate change is one of our election priorities….We would like to express our support for your work in defending our nature and oceans.”